Chapter 3 - Solar Thermal Power Generation

Abstract

Solar thermal power plants use the Sun as a heat source. In order to generate a high enough temperature for a power plant, solar energy must be concentrated. In a solar thermal power plant this is normally achieved with mirrors. Estimates for global solar thermal potential indicate that it could more than provide for total global electricity needs. There are three primary solar thermal technologies based on three ways of concentrating solar energy: solar parabolic trough plants, solar tower power plants, and solar dish power plants. The mirrors used in these plants are normally constructed from glass, although other techniques are being explored. Power plants of these types use solar heat to heat a thermodynamic fluid such as water in order to drive a thermodynamic engine; for water this will be a steam turbine. Solar thermal power plants can have heat storage systems that allow them to generate electricity beyond daylight hours.